Bosnien och Hercegovina

Översikt

Although the overall situation is improving, albeit slowly, the lack of political progress incites periodical protests and creates periods of deadlock that can impact Bosnia-Herzegovina’s development. This is typified by violent protests in a number of cities, including Tuzla and Sarajevo in February 2014. The complex political structure that has developed following the ongoing international intervention often creates socio-political difficulties, with regional leaders keen to pursue greater autonomy. The internal stability has been challenged during 2021-22 as the regional leadership of Republika Srpska has made increasingly separatist statements.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Bosnia-Hezegovina. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza.

Risk of tick-borne encephalitis is present in the northern part of the country.

Although rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Bosnia-Herzegovina, it is not a major risk to most travellers. Vaccine is recommended only for travellers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas, people who will be working with or around animals, people who are taking long trips or moving to remote areas in the country.

Travellers should be aware of the risks associated with travellers’ ailments such as diarrhoea. It is advisable to bring anti-diarrhoea medication and oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration.

Tap water is generally safe in Sarajevo and other major cities. Travellers need to be aware of the risks associated with poor water quality in some parts of the country, particularly in rural areas in Posavina and eastern regions.

Healthcare facilities are poor in the country outside of Sarajevo and other major cities. Even in the capital, standards of medical care may be lacking in certain areas and specialized diagnostics and treatment may be unavailable.

If you suffer from a routine medical ailment, ensure you bring enough supplies of treatment to last your visit and then additional in case of delays in-country. You may not be able to obtain resupply.

You will likely be required to pay for treatment and hospital care, most probably in advance of treatment. In the event of a serious emergency you may have to be evacuated to another country. Sufficient and valid medical insurance should be obtained prior to travel. You should always carry documentation stating your blood type and medical history if this may impact your treatment in an emergency.

Pass

Passports or identity cards are required by all nationalities in order to enter Bosnia-Herzegovina. Passports and other documents accepted for entry must be valid for a minimum of 3 months beyond the period of intended stay. In addition, the traveller is required to register with the local police within 72 hours upon arrival. Hotels will often assist travelers with registration.

Passports are not required by holders of valid national identity cards issued to nationals of: the EU, the EEA, Switzerland, Andorra, San Marino, Serbia, Monaco and the Vatican City.

Visum

Visas are not required for travellers from over 90 countries including the EU, US, Canadian and Australian nationals. Visa free access applies to trips of up to 90 days within a 180 day period. Nationals holding a multiple-entry Schengen visa or Schengen countries residence permit are allowed a seven-day visa. Nationals wishing to stay more than seven days and who require a visa are advised to contact the appropriate diplomatic mission.